The Inspirational Journey of Kezang Lhaden and Phub Dorji
Two young souls embarked on a remarkable journey of creativity and determination that would forever change their lives. Kezang Lhaden and Phub Dorji, both 22 years old, have defied the odds to become passionate jewelry makers, weaving dreams into exquisite jewelry pieces that radiate the heart and soul of Bhutan.
Their journey began with uncertainty. After completing high school, Kezang found herself at a crossroads, unsure of her path in life. Little did she know that destiny had a glittering surprise in store for her. It was during a serendipitous encounter with the world of fashion jewelry and metal smiting that her passion was ignited. And by her side, the talented Phub Dorji, the youngest of seven siblings from Wangduephodrang, discovered his penchant for metalwork, intertwining the elegant strokes of Dzongkha calligraphy into his designs.
Together, they embarked on a journey that would not only change their lives but also shine a radiant light on the rich tapestry of Bhutanese artistry. Kezang and Phub ventured into the world of jewelry making, birthing Gyencha Jewelry on March 1st, 2023 – a testament to their relentless pursuit of passion.
Kezang’s journey was illuminated by the Desuung Skilling Program, where she spent a transformative month honing her craft. With newfound skills and boundless determination, she set forth to share her love for crafts with the world, alongside her partner, Phub. Their jewelry is an embodiment of Bhutan’s vibrant culture, as each piece meticulously integrates patterns and designs inspired by Bhutanese textiles.
Speaking about her journey, Kezang reflects, “I am no stranger to craft. Growing up in a family with no background in crafting, the Desuung Skilling Program inspired me to pursue this passion. Crafting has always been an integral part of my life.”
Gyencha Jewelry is more than just jewelry; it’s a testament to Bhutanese craftsmanship and culture. Kezang and Phub’s creations are not only durable and water-resistant but also carry a touch of silver, a nod to Bhutan’s enduring traditions. The fusion of light metal and intricate Bhutanese textile patterns gives their jewelry a distinctive charm.
“Our business is not just about making exquisite jewelry,” Kezang explains. “It’s about showcasing Bhutanese-made jewelry to the globe. We hope to demonstrate Bhutan’s uniqueness through our earrings, necklaces, anklets, and rings. That’s what sets us apart.”
At the heart of their creations lies a deep desire to preserve Bhutanese heritage. Their designs are a tribute to the nation’s rich cultural tapestry, a modern interpretation of timeless beauty. Kezang’s dream is to bring joy and happiness to those who wear their jewelry, while also serving as a poignant reminder of Bhutanese culture’s inherent beauty.
Kezang admits, “It’s vital to me that my art contributes to the preservation of our tradition.”
Their journey, though filled with passion, was not without its challenges. Kezang and Phub confronted the stigma associated with pursuing careers in creative arts. Overcoming this societal hurdle was a formidable task, but their unwavering determination propelled them forward. Another challenge was the scarcity of materials in Bhutan, which forced them to import raw materials like silver from the USA.
“Turning a pastime into a living in the creative arts always felt intimidating,” Kezang says. “But I believed, and I made others believe too, that it could be done through passion and drive.”
Being entrepreneurs has opened doors to a world of cultural exchange for Kezang and Phub. They interact with people from different nations, learning about their cultures, and receiving valuable feedback on their designs.
“For us, freedom is in art,” Phub explains. “It’s the freedom to design a world we want to live in, a secure setting where you can be who you are. It’s a means of expressing our enthusiasm for art.”
Kezang’s message to aspiring artisans is one of unwavering determination and self-discovery: “I urge everyone to explore their passions and discover methods to infuse their life with a sense of calm and joy. There will be many obstacles to overcome, but don’t give up on your goals; instead, remain firm in your pursuit of them. The most important thing is to love what you do and to go through the process of realizing your dream.”
Kezang Lhaden and Phub Dorji have transformed their dreams into reality, crafting jewelry that not only adorns the body but also the soul. Their journey is a testament to the power of passion and the enduring spirit of Bhutanese culture, forever etched in the radiant beauty of Gyencha Jewelry.
By Purne Maya
